The American Canadian School of Medicine (ACSOM) in Dominica is expanding rapidly, with enrollment increasing substantially since 2023 and new academic partnerships strengthening its international profile. Campus Dean Professor Stanley White said the institution had fewer than 10 students when he joined in August 2023, but that figure has since climbed to more than 100 students studying on the Dominica campus.
ACSOM President CareyJames said the school now has 151 students overall, including approximately 110 in Dominica, while others are in
the United States completing clinical rotations or preparing for medical licensing examinations. The school’s latest intake added 47 students,
comprising 40 first-semester entrants and seven participants in its preparatory programme.
James also announced new collaborations with Canadian institutions, including the University of Waterloo, the University of Windsor and St.
Mary’s University in Halifax. The Waterloo arrangement will allow eligible students to complete their final undergraduate year while beginning the first year of their MD studies at ACSOM, potentially shortening the traditional eight-year route from secondary school to medical school by one year.
Through a separate programme with Windsor, students can complete two years at the Canadian university followed by four years at ACSOM,
creating a six-year pathway to an MD. ACSOM is also broadening its clinical training network in the United States through partnerships with
Desert Regional Medical Center and Trinity Health System, while exploring possibilities for clinical placements in Canada.
The medical school is preparing for several important milestones, including its first graduating class in May and its initial participation in
the United States residency matching process. ACSOM reports that approximately 90 per cent of students who began their studies have remained enrolled, while all five students from its latest cohort who sat the first United States medical licensing examination passed on their
initial attempt.
Beyond academics, the institution is increasing its community involvement through health fairs, screenings and outreach programmes
addressing conditions such as diabetes and hypertension, as well as initiatives supporting people with disabilities.
Student Government Association President Audrey Kata said students are also active in sports and community activities. ACSOM expects to
welcome at least 30 additional students in January and is anticipating continued growth, particularly from Canada, as its new partnerships
develop.
